Superintendent's Blog

From the Desk of the Superintendent

Student learning and success are at the core of the work we commit to every day. Our mission is to ensure that each student is prepared for college, career and life. We are a high-performing urban district leading the way in this effort. Seattle Public Schools was recently recognized as No. 3 out of 200 urban districts for student gains between 3rd and 8th grade, and our graduation rates continue to increase – most notably for our students of color.

Every student in Seattle deserves to know they have a safe learning environment where they are known, valued and belong. January and February provide many opportunities to reinforce and create welcoming learning environments that support identity safety of every student.

Seattle Public Schools is committed to educating children regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, country of origin or immigration status. We will do whatever it takes to make sure every student thrives and want to reassure you, that we will do everything within our power to make sure all of our children are safe, honored and respected while in our care.

We are looking forward to putting our summer learning into action and collaborating with you throughout the year to ensure your child’s academic strengths and needs are known and supported. It is going to be a great year!

Congratulations to the reading teams of Loyal Heights, Graham Hill and Leschi elementary schools who took home the 2017 Global Reading Challenge. The Seattle Public Library reading competition for fourth and fifth graders helps cultivate the joy of reading as the students delve into the annual book selection.

With commencement season and end of the 2016-17 school year upon us, our school halls are filled with excitement. From the first days of kindergarten to graduation day, Seattle Public Schools has a deep commitment to every student’s educational journey.

As Seattle Public Schools seniors complete their last exams and try on their graduation regalia, many experience excitement and joy alongside the uncertainty that often accompanies major life transitions. District partnerships, such as The 13th Year program, take aim to ease this type anxiety and prepare every student for life after high school.

During my frequent school visits, I witness how our schools demonstrate what a district can accomplish when it is committed to providing opportunity that helps every student thrive. I am grateful for our talented, passionate educators, school leaders, central office staff, community partners, and families who collaborate to ensure every student has an excellent and equitable education.

Within the classroom and beyond school grounds, from math instruction to music education, our educators and staff are innovating and collaborating to help ignite a lifelong-passion for learning in Seattle students.

As Black History Month comes to a close, Seattle Public Schools continues our commitment to improving academic outcomes for all Seattle students, especially those who have been historically underserved.

Our paramount work is to ensure every student has equitable access to a high-quality education. Narrowing opportunity gaps by addressing the whole child, academics, and social and emotional well-being, will make success for all a reality.

Through positive, intentional partnerships with educators, community organizations, and families, we can support the unique strengths and needs of every child in our care. Every day our educators, staff, and community partners extend themselves just a little further to meet the needs of our students.

Seattle Public Schools is committed to educating children regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, country of origin, or a student’s immigration status. We will do whatever it takes to make sure every student thrives and I want to reassure you, we will do everything within our power to make sure that all of our children are safe, honored, and respected while in our care.

On Monday, January 16, many of us honored Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by participating in marches, service days at schools, and advocacy in Olympia for the full funding of education. In his message to families and community, Superintendent Nyland reaffirms the district's commitment to realizing the dream of Dr. King.

Many celebrate the new year with revelry and festive parties. Our return to school on January 3 may not have as much celebration, but it does begin with opportunity and hope. As we enter this season of hope and opportunity, as well as challenge, our focus remains on unconditionally believing in our children and the importance of instilling positive beliefs, resilience, and hope.

I know that the district’s vision of every student prepared for college, career, and life is possible, but it is only possible through relationship and partnership. It is only possible when we are united in our commitment to each and every student’s success. So, I want to take this opportunity to thank you. Thank you for your commitment to Seattle Public Schools and to our students. Thank you for believing in public education